EASA AD 2018-0250-E
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2018-0252-E
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0250-E is an emergency directive affecting Leonardo S.p.A. AW169 and AW189 helicopters. It mandates inspections of the tail rotor flight control system, specifically the tail rotor servo-actuator installation and the tail rotor duplex bearing, to prevent potential loss of yaw control. This directive supersedes a previous AD and introduces additional inspection requirements.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0250-E supersedes AD 2018-0241-E and retains its requirements while adding a new inspection of the tail rotor duplex bearing. It requires operators to perform visual inspections of the tail rotor servo-actuator installation and the duplex bearing, with corrective actions and reporting as necessary. This AD is an interim measure pending further investigation.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential safety issue that could lead to loss of helicopter control during flight. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply promptly to ensure continued airworthiness and prevent accidents. Compliance helps maintain regulatory adherence and supports ongoing safety investigations.
What To Do
Operators of AW169 and AW189 helicopters must perform a visual inspection of the tail rotor servo-actuator installation within 5 flight hours or 24 hours after 9 November 2018, and inspect the tail rotor duplex bearing before the next flight after 21 November 2018. Any findings require contacting Leonardo for approved corrective instructions, applying paint marks as specified, and reporting inspection results to Leonardo within 7 days.
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